Lonely Planet review
If you want to stay in the area but are not wild about roughing it, then Bait Ali offers a wonderful compromise. Tucked behind a hill, with a sublime view of the wilderness, this up-market, eco-friendly camp is clearly signposted just off the road, 15km from the Desert Highway and 9km from the Wadi Rum visitor centre. The accommodation (either in army tents or twin-bed cabins) is basic but spotless (and includes linen) and a separate shower block with hot water for men and women. The facilities include an excellent restaurant with an extensive nightly barbecue, a circular meeting hall with a central fire, a bar and comfortable, cushion-filled Bedouin tents that add an exotic Arabian Nights atmosphere to the camp. There is even an attractively designed swimming pool. You can pitch your own tent (JD8) or park a camper van (JD8) and use the shower block. The owners are delightful and can advise on bike rides, hikes, ballooning and other activities in the local area. The hike around Lion Mountain (12km, three hours) is particularly recommended.